Is two-factor authentication a must-need in 2025 on GitHub?

[raf-gst]

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With increasing concerns over account security, and especially with recent policy changes, I’m wondering:

Is two-factor authentication (2FA) a must-have for developers on GitHub in 2025?
Is it mandatory for all users now?
What types of 2FA are most secure and convenient?

[md8-habibullah]

Yes, two-factor authentication (2FA) is a mandatory requirement on GitHub, not just a recommendation. GitHub Docs requires all users who contribute code on GitHub.com to have 2FA enabled. This was implemented starting in March 2023.

Why the change?

1. Extra Security Layer: Even if someone guesses or steals your password, they still can’t get in without your second factor.
2. Software Supply Chain Protection: Open-source projects power much of today’s software. 2FA helps safeguard that ecosystem.
3. Industry Best Practice: Security pros have been shouting “use 2FA” for years. Now GitHub’s making it official.

What happens if you don’t enable 2FA?

– You’ll see banners and warnings nagging you to set it up.
– After the deadline, you won’t be able to sign in to GitHub.com until you turn on 2FA.
– Note: Existing personal access tokens and OAuth tokens keep working for automation, but you can’t create new ones.

How to get set up:

1. Go to your profile photo ➡️ Settings ➡️ Password and authentication
2. Click “Enable two-factor authentication”
3. Choose your method:
   • Authenticator app (TOTP) – our top pick
   • SMS (where supported)
   • Security key (FIDO2, YubiKey, etc.)
   • GitHub Mobile app
   • Passkey (passwordless + 2FA in one!)
4. Save your backup/recovery codes in a safe place – you’ll need them if you lose your device.

That’s it! Smooth sailing ahead with your extra-secure GitHub account. 🚀

[bolotov]

That is fucking retarded. People loose their houses and lives, not speaking about phones.
ROT IN HELL misrosoft, meta and other wold rulers and putin sympathisers